The effect of proactive job search motivation profiles on job search quality in the school-to-work transition
Nguyen, Thi Phuong Anh Buyens, Dirk
Nguyen, Thi Phuong Anh
Buyens, Dirk
Publication Type
Journal article with impact factor
Editor
Supervisor
Publication Year
2025
Journal
Career Development International
Book
Publication Volume
Publication Issue
Publication Begin page
1
Publication End page
18
Publication Number of pages
Collections
Abstract
Purpose This research examines proactive motivation profiles among young graduates in their job search process during the school-to-work transition, and their relation to the job search quality process (JSQP). Additionally, we investigate the effect of proactive personality on the movement between different profiles over two time points. Design/methodology/approach We collected data from 814 young Vietnamese graduates at two time points, and used a person-centered approach and random intercept latent transition analysis in analyzing the data. Findings Four distinct profiles combined different levels of job-search self-efficacy, job-search outcome expectations and perceived financial need at both time points. The most beneficial profile in terms of JSQP, “optimism pioneers”, was the least common profile. The “balanced pursuers” profile was the largest and the most stable group over time. A proactive personality positively influenced the within-person movement between profiles over time. Originality/value Our findings support the effectiveness of a person-centered approach in analyzing the motivational attitudes of young graduates during the complex and time-consuming job-search process after graduation.
Research Projects
Organizational Units
Journal Issue
Keywords
Proactive Motivation, Job Search Quality Process, Career Proactivity, Person-Centered, RI-LTA